Population:
3,900,000
Size: 24,997 square miles
Location: Northeastern Mexico
Borders: U.S. and states of Tamaulipas, San
Luis Potosi and Coahuila
Important cities/sites within the state:
Cascada Cola de Caballo, Grutas (caverns) de García
and Monterrey (capital)
Major airports: General Mariano Escobedo
Intl. aka Monterrey Intl. (MTY)
Time Zone: Central Standard Time
Web site: www.nl.gob.mx
The state of Nuevo Leon is located in the
northeastern part of Mexico, bordered by the states
of Coahuila, San Luis Potosi, Tamaulipas and Texas
to the north. Grottoes, cascades, dams, canyons,
mountains and fascinating villages are just some of
the attractions available in the state. Its
industrial nature, together with the fact that it is
a border state, has also made it a wonderful
shopping and business center.
Nuevo Leon was formerly occupied by nomadic groups
of hunters and gatherers. The cave paintings in Boca
de Potrillos are now the only traces left of their
existence in the area. During the 16th century, the
Spaniards arrived in the region and colonized Nuevo
Leon with a number of new constructions.
Today, Nuevo Leon is noted for its historical
progress, particularly from the end of the 19th
century onwards when its state capital, Monterrey,
spearheaded the country’s industrial development.
Its tradition is now expressed in its unusual
contrasts of colonial architecture combined with
contemporary buildings that blend beautifully with
the state’s natural surroundings and fascinating
villages – stunning sights for travelers to admire
in the area.
The state’s spectacular scenery makes it a popular
spot for hiking, mountain-biking, canyoneering and
camping in the woods. The mountainous area between
Monterrey and Saltillo consists of parallel mountain
crests separated by long deep valleys and steep
ravines, ideal for adventure travelers. Its climate
is cold most of the year and cool and rainy in the
summer.
Cuisine is another important part of the local
culture, based primarily on meat specialties, along
with a vibrant nightlife, also characteristic of the
area. Classic dishes include delicious roast kid,
charcoal grilled ribs, Zaraza meat, braised kid and
traditional beef jerky with scrambled egg and
traditional sauces such as pico de gallo, la
bandera and la fresadilla.
Monterrey, the magnificent capital of Nuevo Leon and
the third largest city in Mexico, is one of Mexico’s
major cultural centers and industrial cities. The
town offers rich cultural, historical and
entertainment options, all set in an exciting
metropolis bordered by the beautiful distinctive
landmark of Cerro de la Silla.
From prehistoric rides and thrilling rock climbs, to
magnificent cave paintings and hikes up the Sierra
de las Mitras, Nuevo Leon offers it all. The state
is a perfect blend of 400 years of history combined
with contemporary structures and modern living. It
is a vivid example of one of Mexico’s greatest
industrial and historic regions. |
